Join Rakul Preet Singh as she discovers the breathtaking beauty of Melbourne, Victoria

Some cities leave an impression for a moment, but Victoria — with its vibrant capital, Melbourne — stays with you long after you leave. From the pulse of its live music scene and bustling local markets to the nostalgic charm of the Puffing Billy steam train winding through lush forests and fern-filled gullies, every corner of the city tells a story. Strolling through Melbourne’s iconic laneways and the lively Bourke Street Mall reveals a destination layered with culture, creativity, and character. During a recent visit for an Elle cover shoot, Rakul Preet Singh experienced the many sides of Victoria firsthand. From Melbourne’s celebrated coffee culture and eclectic culinary scene to its rich artistic heritage and historic landmarks, Victoria offers endless reasons to indulge in an unforgettable escapeA trip dedicated to wellness and relaxationExperience complete tranquility at Alba Thermal Springs and Spa, a thoughtfully curated wellness retreat nestled in the heart of the Mornington Peninsula. Designed as a sanctuary of calm, Alba blends contemporary architecture with the raw beauty, creates an immersive escape where nature and wellbeing exist in perfect harmony. Here, a series of beautifully designed geothermal pools are set within native bushland, allowing you to move between warm mineral waters, open-air bathing spaces, and quiet reflection zones that encourage complete relaxation. Each spring is rich in naturally therapeutic minerals, known to help soothe tired muscles, improve circulation, and restore balance to the body and mind. Beyond the pools, Alba offers restorative spa rituals, wellness experiences that focus on reconnecting with oneself.Something for arts, music and sports lovers: Renowned for its thriving arts and festival culture, the National Gallery of Victoria is a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts. Home to acclaimed international exhibitions alongside distinctive Australian masterpieces, the NGV on St Kilda Road offers an inspiring glimpse into Melbourne’s dynamic creative scene. Just across from the iconic Flinders Street Station, Federation Square comes alive with art, culture, dining, and year-round events, capturing the vibrant spirit and cultural heartbeat of Melbourne.Visit the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, popularly known as the MCG or simply “the G”, one of the largest and most celebrated sporting stadiums in the world. Nestled within Yarra Park, the MCG stands at the heart of Australia’s rich sporting culture and legacy. Home to the Australian Football League and the Australian Sports Museum, it is far more than just a stadium — it is a symbol of Victorian pride and global sporting excellence. A behind-the-scenes tour offers fascinating insight into its storied history, legendary sporting moments, and enduring significance in Australian sport. Discover nature at your fingertipsAlong the legendary Great Ocean Road, the breathtaking Twelve Apostles rise dramatically from the Southern Ocean, creating one of Australia’s most spectacular natural wonders. Set within Port Campbell National Park, this iconic landscape is awe-inspiring whether experienced from a scenic helicopter ride above the coastline or from the viewing platforms up close. The dramatic limestone formations, rugged cliffs, and endless ocean views promise memories that last for a lifetime. The enchanting Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges offer a serene escape into rolling vineyards, boutique retreats, and lush forested landscapes. Here, time slows down, inviting you to savour exceptional food, world-class wines, and the beauty of nature at every turn.Just an hour from Melbourne, the bushland haven of Healesville Sanctuary offers an unforgettable encounter with Australia’s unique wildlife. Almost like stepping into a real-life encyclopaedia of nature, the sanctuary allows visitors to discover native Australian birds, iconic animals, and the rich stories of Indigenous culture that together capture the true spirit of the land. Seasons may change, but the spirit of Melbourne and Victoria stays in constant motion — alive with colour, culture, and celebration all year round. From the electric atmosphere of the Grand Prix , Grand Slam tennis to stunning international art exhibitions and world-class performances ranging from blockbuster musicals to bold experimental theatre, every visit feels like a new story unfolding.Time your journey right and you’ll find yourself swept into a vibrant mix of experiences — indulgent food trails, laugh-out-loud comedy nights, surf competitions along wild coastlines, and spectacular flower and garden festivals.From golden sunrises over rugged shores to neon-lit city nights humming with energy, Victoria is a destination that never stands still. Whether you’re wandering through immersive art spaces, chasing coastal thrills, or stepping into living history, every moment feels cinematic, unexpected, and unforgettable.Photographer credits: Jedd Cooney for ELLE IndiaDisclaimer: This article has been produced on behalf of Visit Victoria by Times Internet’s Spotlight team.